Initiated men are men who have learned to take off their masks—to reveal themselves honestly, without the protective covering most men put on to feel safe as they compete in the world. These are men who have made a commitment to learn about themselves as men, and to share what they have learned with other men. These are men who are in the process of doing their own “work,” whether in counseling, men’s weekends, in men’s groups or through intensive introspection.
Initiated men understand the importance of holding men accountable to their commitments. These men are willing to risk pissing you off to help you be the man you want to be. They won’t mother (comforting without challenging) you or simply try to make you ‘feel better” in the short term.
These men will listen, ask questions and challenge you to find your own answers. In other words, they’ll father you and give you what you need to be a better man, husband, father and leader. These men will be mirrors for you, showing you how they see you, and willingly participating with you to discover deeper truths within themselves. It always goes both ways.
To begin your journey, and to be initiated into manhood, start by getting a copy of ‘Hold On to Your N.U.T.s.” Then consider joining the men at our next BetterMen Weekend.
Imagine having initiated men in your life. Imagine being an initiated man, a man comfortable in his own skin, available to share his experiences and wisdom with other men. Imagine being proud of the man you’ve become!
